'An Interactive Web of Water, Space and Life': A Paradox of Urban Dwelling in Setu Rawa Besar, Depok

Abstract

This paper discusses an interactive web of water, space and life amidst the paradox of formal and informal urban dwelling in Setu (Lake) Rawa Besar in Depok, Indonesia. Its high-density population lives in a such critical environmental condition with the amount of garbage that has polluted the Setu. The meshwork of human activity in terms of architecture and space strengthens the linkages between the natural and manmade environments. This interactive web highlights the paradox of urbanization and modernization of the city amidst environmental and socio-cultural issues. This research was initially based on findings of the International Joint Studio and Workshop at Universitas Indonesia, in collaboration with University of Florida and Cardiff University in 2016 and 2017. The methods of the study are through qualitative analysis with the advanced methods of in-depth interviews, observation and site analysis, and socio-cultural mapping of the informal and formal community. In addition, this research also reviews the existing urban master plan that has not been fully implemented yet. This research identifies the ways in which municipal authorities can collaborate with the informal community to help manage the waste within the setu, to propose further plans to create a 'healthier' settlement for the informal community.